ICT Constructive tool

ICT as Constructive tool

Third tool is technology as a constructive tool. In these sessions, we were introduced to the meaning of constructivism, Constructivist approach to teaching and learning, Linkage of ICT to constructive tools.

Constructivism is a theory in education that recognizes the learners' understanding and knowledge based on their own experiences. There are many examples of constructive tools such as concept map, Desktop publishing, word, spreadsheets, PowerPoint etc. Concept maps allows user to brainstorms and to visualize learners understanding. Desktop Publishing program allows user to organize and present their ideas in an attractive format. Word, spreadsheets and PowerPoint are used to organized, record, manipulate and present their ideas in an attractive in the form of memos, reports, letters, presentation, etc. I realized that this applications help learners to manipulate information, visualize and understand the concepts, and construct one's own knowledge. I found these applications are very useful for constructing new meaning and knowledge in our teaching and learning to develop personal and professional life.

There are many constructivist approaches to teaching and learning. Amongst them,  I liked the probing idea that states students need to construct their own understanding because this statement summarized all other points on the constructivist approach to teaching and learning. It is about child-centred learning where student engage in making meaning and knowledge through critical thinking and reflection on past experiences and knowledge. This is ultimately developing children as independent learners.  Therefore, the teacher plays an important role to facilitate children's learning.

From the list of points on the linkage of ICT to constructivism, I am confused about the children can learn without a teacher since I have been always depending on teachers and I felt learning take place only with the support from the teacher. However, I realized after knowing the constructive approach of learning that children will learn better through the linkage of technology by exploring the through it. 

The activity on creating simulation was one of the interesting and helpful for me to rediscover, rethink and reflect on my knowledge gain from functional and information technology module that I have taken during the first year. I remember most of the skills learnt in FIT but I forget a few knowledge. However, doing this activity was a relief to update myself with all the knowledge and skills again. I have found my simulation boring at first since I was making the first time in my life. However, it was better as an when I make that for the second and third time. I learnt so many things by making this simulation.

In conclusion, I realized that technology in the constructivist approach of learning is one of the best methods to take place in teaching and learning. I would encourage everyone to use a constructive approach with the help of technology in the school to create our children active and independent learner for all time to come.

Thank you